Columbia River expected to approach flood stage

Columbia River expected to approach flood stage

May. 15, 2018

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — The Columbia River is expected to approach flood stage this week during high tide events after a rapid snowmelt from recent higher-than-average spring temperatures.

The National Weather Service reports that the water level near Vancouver, Washington was measured at 15.4 feet (4.7 meters) on Tuesday morning.

Flood stage is considered 16 feet (4.9 meters).

KGW-TV reports that the higher water level means the bridge over the Columbia River that links Oregon and Washington will need to be lifted more frequently so even smaller boats to pass under it safely.

The station says those bridge lifts will be limited to times outside rush hour.